Addicton Help Podcast Episode 7: Get the Facts on Fentanyl (and Bust Some Myths)

Welcome back to the Addiction Help Podcast with your hosts, Dan Hauser and Jessica Miller. In today’s episode, we delve into the world of fentanyl, shedding light on its uses and dangers as well as dispelling some common myths. Join us as we raise awareness about fentanyl and discuss essential safety measures.

Episode 7: Get the Facts on Fentanyl (and Bust Some Myths)

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In this episode of the Addiction Help Podcast, hosts Dan Hauser and Jessica Miller guide you through an in-depth discussion on fentanyl. They provide a comprehensive overview of this potent opioid, its uses, the dangers it presents, and debunk common myths about it.

Duration: 48 min 46 sec

Segment I: Fentanyl and Fentanyl Awareness

General Overview

• Fentanyl Awareness Day: On May 9th, we commemorate Fentanyl Awareness Day to draw attention to this potent substance’s impact on individuals and communities.
• What is Fentanyl? Fentanyl is a strong painkiller, legally prescribed for chronic or severe pain resulting from conditions such as cancer, surgery, or accidents.
• Illicit Use: Unfortunately, fentanyl is also produced illicitly in “labs” and used as a counterfeit version of pills or mixed with other street drugs.
• Drug Trafficking Impact: Drug trafficking organizations distribute fentanyl by kilogram, with just one kilogram having the potential to cause the deaths of 500,000 people, according to the DEA.

What Makes Fentanyl Dangerous?

• Potency: Fentanyl’s potency makes it particularly hazardous. Even tiny amounts can have severe effects on the body, leading to overdose and death.

Segment II: Fentanyl Safety

Signs of Fentanyl/Opioid Overdose:

• Recognizing the symptoms of fentanyl/opioid overdose is crucial. These signs include slow or stopped breathing, slow or stopped heart rate, bluish discoloration around the lips and fingertips, and unresponsiveness.
• CDC Guidelines for Suspected Overdose:
  1. Step 1: Call 911 immediately.
  2. Step 2: If available, administer Narcan, a medication that can reverse opioid overdose.
  3. Step 3: Keep the person awake and ensure they continue breathing.
  4. Step 4: Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
  5. Step 5: Stay with them until first responders arrive.
• Importance of Narcan: We briefly touch upon the importance of Narcan and its role in saving lives. For a more in-depth discussion, refer to our pilot episode.

Test Strips for Detecting Fentanyl (Cutting Agent):

• Test strips play a crucial role in detecting the presence of fentanyl when it has been used as a cutting agent in other substances.
• Safe Disposal of Fentanyl: For instructions on safely disposing of fentanyl and related substances, please visit the FDA or CDC websites. You can find the link in the episode description.

Segment III: Fentanyl Facts and Myths: Quiz and Discussion (15-20 min)

Disclaimer: Please note that the quiz questions were unavailable in advance, so our reactions and responses are spontaneous.

• Fentanyl Facts Quiz: Click here to access the quiz questions.
• Discussion: After each question, Jess and Dan engage in a brief discussion about the answer. They share their thoughts, surprises, and general observations. Feel free to play along and let us know how you did!

In this episode, we explored the world of fentanyl, from its medical applications to its illicit use. We emphasized the importance of fentanyl safety, including recognizing overdose symptoms and taking immediate action. Additionally, we discussed the significance of test strips for detecting fentanyl and explored safe disposal methods. Stay tuned for future episodes as we continue to provide valuable information and debunk myths surrounding addiction and substance abuse.

Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, seek professional help and support.

Sources Used in Today’s Episode:

• Facts about Fentanyl
• Where and How to Dispose of Unused Medicines | FDA
• Fentanyl Facts
• Fentanyl Flow to the United States
• Fentanyl Analogs | PNNL
  
• Fentanyl Overdose Facts and How to Save a Life
  
• DEA Warns of Brightly-Colored Fentanyl Used to Target Young Americans
  
• Why this expert says ‘rainbow fentanyl’ is no real threat to your Halloween this year | PBS NewsHour
• Unfounded fears about rainbow fentanyl become the latest Halloween boogeyman

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